Patron Saint of
The Apostles are the Patron Saint Of
Catholics around the world have prayed to the Twelve Apostles throughout history, and many of them have become beloved patron saints of a wide variety of causes. While some Apostles are more well-known than others, each one has played an integral part in helping to spread Christianity across much of the known world.
Saint Andrew
Andrew, the ‘First Called’ Disciple of Jesus, has been venerated and celebrated as a patron saint of many nations, cities, churches, and organizations throughout Christian history. From Scotland to Greece to Ukraine to Constantinople and beyond, the story of Saint Andrew’s incredible journey from a humble fisherman to an important leader in the early Christian Church is one that continues to inspire people with its strength and dedication. As Patron Saint Of Science & Technology, Catherine The Great & Russia, Fishermen & Mariners, and More – Andrew’s legacy lives on around us in many different ways.
Greece: Saint Andrew is the patron saint of Greece, and his feast day on November 30th is a national holiday.
Russia: Saint Andrew is also venerated in Russia, where he is believed to have preached the Gospel and where many churches are dedicated to him.
The Amalfi Coast in Italy: Saint Andrew is the patron saint of the town of Amalfi on Italy’s Amalfi Coast, and his relics are housed in the town’s cathedral.
Barbados: Saint Andrew is the patron saint of Barbados, and his feast day is a public holiday.
Romania: Saint Andrew is considered the patron saint of Romania because, according to tradition, he preached the Gospel in the region that is now Romania.
Ukraine: Saint Andrew is also the patron saint of Ukraine, as he is believed to have visited the area during his lifetime and preached the Gospel there.
Scotland: Saint Andrew is the patron saint of Scotland, and his saltire (a diagonal cross on a blue background) is the country’s national flag.
Singers: Saint Andrew is the patron saint of singers and musicians.
Spinsters: Saint Andrew is also considered the patron saint of spinsters, or unmarried women.
Maidens: Saint Andrew is sometimes associated with maidens or young unmarried women.
Fishmongers: Saint Andrew is the patron saint of fishmongers.
Fishermen: Saint Andrew is also the patron saint of fishermen, and his intercession is often sought for a successful catch.
Women wanting to be mothers: Saint Andrew is sometimes invoked by women who are trying to conceive or seeking a safe pregnancy and delivery.
Gout: Saint Andrew is one of several saints who are said to intercede on behalf of people suffering from gout.
Sore throats: Saint Andrew is also associated with the healing of sore throats, and some people may pray to him for relief from this ailment.
Huntingdon in England: Saint Andrew is the patron saint of the town of Huntingdon in Cambridgeshire, England.
Older brothers: In some cultures, Saint Andrew is considered the patron saint of older brothers or siblings.
Patras, Greece: Saint Andrew is particularly venerated in the city of Patras, Greece, where tradition holds that he was martyred by crucifixion on an X-shaped cross (known as a “St. Andrew’s cross”).
Saint James the Greater
Saint James, also known as Santiago, is one of the most revered saints in the Catholic Church. He traveled to Spain to spread the Christian faith before being martyred in Jerusalem.
As a result, Saint James has become closely associated with Spain and several countries in Latin America. He is the patron saint of Spain and in particular, the region of Galicia, where he is said to have been buried. He is also the patron saint of Guatemala and Nicaragua.
In addition to countries, Saint James is also the patron saint of many professions and groups of people. Here are some of the most notable ones:
Pilgrims: Saint James is most famously associated with pilgrims, who have long journeyed to his shrine in Compostela, Spain. He is believed to have appeared to a shepherd there, leading to the discovery of his tomb and the subsequent creation of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route.
Laborers: As a former laborer himself, Saint James is often invoked by those who work with their hands. He is seen as a protector of workers and a model for the dignity of labor.
Equine workers: Saint James is the patron saint of horse-related professions, including horse breeders, horsemen, horse trainers, and equine workers. He is said to have ridden a horse during his life and is often depicted on horseback in art and iconography.
Veterinarians and diseased animals: Saint James has a special connection with animals, and is the patron saint of both veterinarians and those who care for diseased animals.
Blacksmiths: Saint James is also the patron saint of blacksmiths, who work with metal and fire in a way that echoes his martyrdom.
Hatters: Hatters and milliners also look to Saint James for guidance and protection, as do those who work with leather and wool.
Opticians: Saint James is the patron saint of opticians, who help people to see more clearly.
Convertible tops: Those who work with convertible tops also look to Saint James for protection, as do ecclesiastics and archers.
Carpenters and Tanners: Saint James is associated with both carpenters and tanners, who work with wood and leather, respectively.
Cavalry and the sick: Saint James is the patron saint of cavalry and is also invoked for healing and protection of the sick.
Fishermen: As a former fisherman himself, Saint James is the patron saint of fishermen and the sea.
The diverse range of patronages associated with Saint James reflects his enduring legacy and the many ways in which people have looked to him for help and guidance over the centuries. Whether you are a pilgrim, a laborer, or a veterinarian, you can find comfort and inspiration in the patronage of Saint James.
Saint John
Saint John the Apostle, also known as Saint John the Evangelist, is one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ and the author of the Gospel of John, as well as several other books in the New Testament. Saint John is known for his close relationship with Jesus and for being the only apostle present at the crucifixion. He is also known for his theological writings and teachings, which have influenced Christian thought for centuries. As a result, Saint John is the patron saint of several professions, countries, and causes.
One of the countries associated with Saint John is Lithuania. In Lithuania, Saint John is the patron saint of love and friendship. Lithuanians celebrate his feast day with traditional foods and activities, including visiting loved ones and exchanging gifts.
Several professions are also associated with Saint John. He is the patron saint of apothecaries, architects, biblical scholars, confessors, engravers, hospitals, librarians, light, publishers, theologians, and writers. These professions all relate to areas of expertise and interest that were important to Saint John during his lifetime.
For example, Saint John’s writings and teachings on theology and biblical scholarship have had a lasting impact on Christian thought, making him a fitting patron saint for scholars of the Bible. He is also the patron saint of confessors, as he was known for his spiritual guidance and ability to listen to others. Saint John’s association with light makes him a fitting patron saint for architects, who use light to create atmosphere and shape space.
Saint John’s association with hospitals and healing is another important aspect of his legacy. He is often invoked against burns and poisoning, and his patronage of hospitals reflects his concern for the physical and spiritual well-being of others.
In addition to these professions, Saint John is the patron saint of burn victims, art dealers, and booksellers. These associations reflect his concern for the physical and creative well-being of others. Saint John’s patronage of burn victims stems from his reputation for being able to heal the sick, while his association with art dealers and booksellers reflects his interest in creativity and communication.
Saint John is also associated with love, loyalty, and friendship. His close relationship with Jesus and his ability to connect with others makes him a fitting patron saint for these virtues.
In the United States, Saint John is the patron saint of the city of Baltimore, Maryland. This association reflects the city’s Catholic heritage and its strong ties to Saint John’s teachings and legacy.
In conclusion, Saint John the Apostle is a revered figure in the Christian tradition, and his patronage extends to several professions, countries, and causes. From apothecaries to hospitals, from Lithuania to Baltimore, Saint John’s legacy continues to inspire and guide individuals and communities around the world.
Saint Phillip
Saint Philip was one of the twelve apostles of Jesus and is recognized as the patron saint of several professions and groups. Milliners/Hatmakers: It is said that Saint Philip had a love for hats and was often depicted wearing one, hence why he became associated with milliners and hatmakers.
Pastry Chefs/Pâtissiers: Saint Philip is said to have distributed bread to the poor and needy, which is why he became associated with pastry chefs and bakers.
Lawyers/Notaries: It is believed that Saint Philip was skilled in resolving disputes and conflicts, which is why he became associated with lawyers and notaries.
Rome and the Papacy: Saint Philip played a significant role in the early development of the Church in Rome, which eventually became the center of the Catholic Church and the seat of the papacy.
Youth: Saint Philip was known for his ability to connect with young people and inspire them to lead virtuous lives, which is why he became associated with youth.
Victims of Torture: According to tradition, Saint Philip was subjected to various forms of torture during his life, which is why he became associated with victims of torture.
Stomach Ailments: It is said that Saint Philip suffered from stomach ailments during his life, which is why he became associated with those who suffer from digestive issues.
Saint Bartholomew
Saint Bartholomew is a Christian saint and one of the twelve apostles who followed Jesus Christ. He is known as the patron saint of several professions and groups, including bookbinders, plasterers, butchers, and tanners. He is also associated with Armenia, agricultural workers, shoemakers, house builders, Marco Polo’s travelers, and tinsmiths. In this list, we’ll explore some of the traditions and stories behind these associations.
Bookbinders: Saint Bartholomew is said to have been a skilled scribe and copyist, and he is often depicted in art holding a book or scroll. As a result, he became the patron saint of bookbinders and is sometimes invoked for protection against fire, which can be a significant danger to books and manuscripts.
Plasterers: Saint Bartholomew’s association with plasterers is less clear, but some accounts suggest that he may have been involved in the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem and thus had some expertise in building and plastering.
Butchers and Tanners: According to tradition, Saint Bartholomew was martyred by being flayed alive (i.e., having his skin removed), which is why he is also known as the patron saint of flayers and leatherworkers (tanners). In some accounts, he is said to have been a butcher before he became a disciple of Jesus.
Armenia: Saint Bartholomew is the patron saint of Armenia, where he is known as “Bartholomew the Apostle.” According to tradition, he preached in Armenia and converted many people to Christianity, but he was eventually martyred there as well.
Agricultural Workers: Although Saint Bartholomew is not specifically associated with agriculture, his feast day falls during the harvest season in many parts of the world, and he is sometimes invoked for the protection of crops and livestock.
Shoemakers: Saint Bartholomew is also sometimes associated with shoemakers, as he is said to have worn sandals during his travels as a disciple of Jesus.
House Builders: Saint Bartholomew’s association with house builders may be related to his expertise in building and construction, which is sometimes attributed to his involvement in the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem.
Marco Polo’s Travelers: Saint Bartholomew is said to have appeared in a vision of the explorer Marco Polo, who was traveling through Armenia in the 13th century. The saint gave Polo a letter of introduction to the governor of the region, which helped him gain safe passage and assistance on his journey.
Tinsmiths: Saint Bartholomew is not commonly associated with tinsmiths, but he is sometimes invoked for protection against lightning, which can be a hazard for those working with metal.
Saint Matthew
Saint Matthew, one of the twelve apostles who followed Jesus Christ, is considered the patron saint of several professions and groups, including bankers, tax officials, accountants, financiers, and money changers. As a former tax collector himself, he is seen as a model of conversion and repentance. In this list, we’ll explore some of the traditions and stories behind Saint Matthew’s associations with these professions and groups, including security guards, custom inspectors, and others who work with money and finance.
Bankers: Saint Matthew is sometimes invoked as the patron saint of bankers because of his association with money and finance. In some traditions, he is said to have worked as a money changer before becoming a disciple of Jesus.
Tax Collectors: Saint Matthew is perhaps best known for his former profession as a tax collector, which was a despised and controversial occupation in ancient times. His decision to leave his position and follow Jesus is seen as a model of repentance and conversion.
Accountants: Saint Matthew’s association with tax collecting and money management also makes him a patron saint of accountants, who often work with financial records and calculations.
Financiers: Saint Matthew’s connection to the world of finance has led some to consider him the patron saint of financiers, who manage investments and financial markets.
Money Changers: In some traditions, Saint Matthew is said to have worked as a money changer, exchanging currency for travelers and merchants. As a result, he is sometimes invoked for protection and guidance in matters of commerce and trade.
Security Guards: Saint Matthew’s association with tax collecting also means that he would have had to work with guards and other security personnel to protect himself and his assets. As a result, he is sometimes considered the patron saint of security guards and law enforcement officials.
Custom Inspectors: In addition to collecting taxes, Saint Matthew would have also had to oversee the inspection and regulation of imported goods. As a result, he is sometimes invoked as the patron saint of custom inspectors and border control agents.
Tax Officials: Given his former occupation as a tax collector, Saint Matthew is also considered the patron saint of tax officials and those who work in tax collection and management.
Saint Thomas
Saint Thomas, also known as Doubting Thomas, was one of the twelve apostles who followed Jesus Christ. He is considered the patron saint of several professions and groups, including judges and architects. His feast day is celebrated on July 3rd each year. In this list, we’ll explore some of the traditions and stories behind Saint Thomas’s associations with these professions and groups, including builders, carpenters, lawyers, surveyors, stone masons, and others who work in the construction and justice industries.
Builders: Saint Thomas is considered the patron saint of builders, as he was a carpenter before he became a disciple of Jesus. His skills as a builder are said to have been honed during his time working as a carpenter in the city of Sebaste.
Carpenters: In addition to being the patron saint of builders, Saint Thomas is also considered the patron saint of carpenters, who work with wood and other materials to build structures.
Judgment: Saint Thomas is associated with the concept of judgment, particularly through his famous expression of doubt when confronted with the risen Jesus. His story serves as a reminder of the importance of questioning and seeking understanding.
Judges: Saint Thomas’s association with judgment has also led some to consider him the patron saint of judges, who work to ensure justice and fairness in legal proceedings.
Lawyers: In addition to judges, Saint Thomas is sometimes invoked as the patron saint of lawyers, who advocate for their clients and work to ensure that justice is served.
Surveyors: Saint Thomas’s work as a builder and carpenter also makes him a patron saint of surveyors, who use tools and techniques to measure and map out construction sites.
Stonemasons: Stonemasons, who work with stone and other materials to build structures, are also considered part of Saint Thomas’s patronage.
Saint James the Lesser
Saint James the Lesser, also known as Santiago el Menor in Spanish, was one of the twelve apostles who followed Jesus Christ. He is considered the patron saint of several professions and groups, including the dying, fullers, hatters, and druggists (pharmacists). In this list, we’ll explore some of the traditions and stories behind Saint James the Lesser’s associations with these professions and groups, including those who work with cloth, hats, and medicine, as well as those who use clubs in their work.
The dying: Saint James the Lesser is considered the patron saint of the dying, as his own martyrdom involved being beaten to death with clubs. His story is seen as a source of comfort and inspiration for those who are facing the end of their lives.
Fullers: Saint James the Lesser is also associated with fullers, who clean, shrink, and thicken cloth. This association is based on a legend that he wore a garment made of particularly high-quality cloth.
Hatters and hatmakers: Another profession associated with Saint James the Lesser is hat making. In some traditions, he is said to have been a hatmaker himself.
Druggists and pharmacists: Saint James the Lesser is also considered the patron saint of druggists and pharmacists, who work with medicines and healing remedies. This association is based on the idea that he was an apostle and disciple of Jesus, who was known for his healing miracles.
Those who use clubs in their work: Finally, Saint James the Lesser is associated with those who use clubs in their work. This is based on the tradition that he was martyred by being beaten to death by clubs.
Saint Simon
Saint Simon was one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ and was originally a fisherman before becoming a disciple. He is also considered the patron saint of several professions, including tanners, saw workers, and others who work with leather and wood. In this list, we’ll explore some of the traditions and stories behind Saint Simon’s associations with these professions, as well as with the independent state of Judea and with hop-pickers, brewers, and curriers.
Fishermen: Saint Simon’s origins as a fisherman are a key part of his story and identity as an apostle. His association with this profession is based on his earlier career and his experiences working on the Sea of Galilee.
Tanners and leather workers: Saint Simon is also considered the patron saint of tanners and leather workers. This association may be based on his experience as a fisherman, as leather was often used in the production of fishing nets and other equipment.
Saw workers and woodcutters: Another profession associated with Saint Simon is woodcutting and saw work. This association is based on the tradition that he was martyred by being sawn in half.
The independent state of Judea: In addition to his associations with specific professions, Saint Simon is also associated with the independent state of Judea. This was the region where he lived and worked as an apostle, and where he is said to have been martyred.
Hop-pickers, brewers, and curriers: Finally, Saint Simon is also associated with hop-pickers, brewers, and curriers, although the reasons for these connections are less clear. It’s possible that these associations were made based on the perceived similarity between these professions and those of tanners and leather workers.
Overall, Saint Simon’s story and legacy as an apostle of Jesus Christ have inspired many different traditions and associations over the centuries, making him a figure of great significance in many different professions and communities.
Saint Jude
Saint Jude, also known as Thaddeus or Judas Thaddaeus, is considered the patron saint of hope and impossible causes. Many people turn to Saint Jude in times of desperation or when facing seemingly insurmountable challenges. He is believed to offer comfort and support to those in need, and his intercession is sought by those facing desperate or impossible situations. Saint Jude is also the patron saint of hospitals and hospital workers, as well as the city of Chicago in the United States and Armenia. Additionally, he is known as the patron saint of “the Impossible,” further emphasizing his association with overcoming seemingly insurmountable obstacles.
Desperate or impossible cases: Saint Jude is often invoked by those who are facing seemingly impossible situations or crises, seeking his intercession for strength, courage, and hope in the face of adversity.
Hospitals and hospital workers: As the patron saint of hospitals and hospital workers, Saint Jude is believed to offer comfort and protection to those who work in the healthcare industry and to those who are seeking healing.
The city of Chicago, in the United States: Saint Jude is the patron saint of the city of Chicago, with many churches and institutions dedicated to him throughout the city.
Armenia: Saint Jude is also venerated in Armenia, where he is believed to have preached the Gospel and performed miracles.
The Impossible: Finally, Saint Jude is known as the patron saint of “the Impossible,” reflecting his reputation as a powerful intercessor for those who are facing seemingly insurmountable challenges.
Saint Peter
Saint Peter was one of Jesus’ twelve apostles and is known as Rome’s first pope. As a Catholic saint, he is also the patron saint of the following:
The Papacy: Saint Peter is regarded as the first pope of the Catholic Church, having been appointed by Jesus to lead the apostles and serve as the bishop of Rome.
Fishermen: Saint Peter was a fisherman by trade before becoming an apostle. According to Catholic tradition, he and his brother, Andrew, were called by Jesus to become “fishers of men” by spreading the word of God.
Locksmiths: Saint Peter is the patron saint of locksmiths because he holds the keys to heaven. Jesus gave him the keys to the kingdom of heaven, symbolizing his authority to lead the Church on Earth.
Bridge builders: Saint Peter is sometimes associated with bridges because of his role as a bridge between God and humanity. He is also said to have performed a miracle in which he healed a crippled man who was begging at a bridge.
Butchers: According to some accounts, Saint Peter worked as a butcher before he became a follower of Jesus. As a result, he is sometimes invoked as a patron saint by butchers.
Sailors: Saint Peter is believed to have had a special relationship with the sea, as he was a fisherman. Sailors and fishermen have long invoked his protection while at sea.
Those who are facing death: Saint Peter was martyred by being crucified upside down, and is sometimes invoked by those who are facing death, as he faced his own death with courage and faith.
Net makers: As a fisherman, Saint Peter would have used nets to catch fish. He is sometimes invoked as a patron saint by net makers.
Shipbuilders: Along with being a fisherman, Saint Peter is also believed to have been a shipbuilder. He is sometimes invoked as a patron saint by shipbuilders.
Saint Matthias
Saint Matthias was chosen by lots to replace Judas Iscariot in Jesus’ twelve apostles after Judas betrayed Christ. He is the patron saint of carpenters, tailors, smallpox patients, and perseverance. His feast day is celebrated on August 9th each year.
Carpenters: Saint Matthias is believed to have been a skilled carpenter before he became an apostle. As such, he is recognized as a patron saint of carpenters and those who work with wood.
Tailors: Saint Matthias is also recognized as a patron saint of tailors, likely because of his association with the garment industry. Some legends suggest that he was involved in the weaving of the seamless garment of Christ, which was later divided among the soldiers at the crucifixion.
Those with smallpox: In some parts of the world, Saint Matthias is invoked as a patron saint of those suffering from smallpox. This is because of a tradition that he once cured a woman of the disease by laying his hands on her.
Perseverance: Saint Matthias is also associated with the virtue of perseverance, which is the ability to persist in a course of action despite obstacles or setbacks. This is because he was chosen to replace Judas Iscariot as an apostle after much prayer and discernment by the other disciples.
Hope: Finally, Saint Matthias is sometimes invoked in prayers for hope, which is the confident expectation of good things to come. This is because of the hope that he embodied as a disciple of Christ, even in the face of persecution and hardship.
Conclusion Patron Saint of
In conclusion, the many patron saints of Christianity have varying associations with different countries, professions, and more. It is important to remember that these Saints serve as both historical and spiritual figures, whose stories are still relevant today.